After following forum posts on how to get the best results from DCS and Legacy, I sold off the things I read was bad and bought the things I read was good and put together a power system I thought would work. After reading the recent posts on DCS/TIU failures I'm no longer sure what I have is good. Part of my problem is I'm good at putting stuff together from instructions/diagrams, but not very knowledgeable on how it works. And the recent discussions have been way over my head.
I've stopped laying wire for my layout because I'm no longer sure my plan is good for the long term. At this point I'm looking for some guidance. As background, here is what I'm doing now:
-The layout is set up for command operation using both DCS and Legacy. While I have no desire to run conventional, I can run conventional through the PowerMasters when friends bring over non-command engines.
-I have two main lines running around the layout, one out and back branch line, a usable yard for classification, engine yard with turntable, industries along the main and branch lines, and a staging yard.
-I am powering the main lines with two PH180s through a 360 PowerMaster and DCS set up in passive mode. I have a PSX-AC set at 15.4 amps for circuit protection, and a choke between the PSX and TIU connection to limit degradation of the DCS signal due to the PSX electronics.
-I am using the same power set up for my branch line and yards, except I'm using only one PH180 through a PowerMaster and the PSX set at 8.0 amps.
-I have multiple TVSs because they are cheap and they can fail without any indication they are bad. However, it could make it more difficult to diagnose problems if one shorts.
-Normally the outside rails would be connected. If I want to use an outside rail to activate an accessory, I'll use the capacitor to maintain TMCC signal on the isolated rail.
Based on my understanding of DCS and Legacy up to now, here is my wiring diagram for the main lines.
Based on the recent posts, is this something I should continue with or should I be doing something different. I have no problem rewiring/replacing any item if it will make things work better/longer.
Also, if John's (gunrunnerjohn) fix works will there be someone willing to do the upgrades? (I think John is over taxed as it is.)
Thanks.
